Faculty evaluation: review of the literature most pertinent to dental education

Permeability involves the passage of fluids, ions, molecules, particulate matter and bacteria into and through a substance or tissue under different and varying conditions. The permeability of the dentin is essential to support the physiology and reaction patterns of the pulp-dentin organ. Nutrients and impulses are transported from the pulp via the odontoblast process and the contents of its tubules maintain the dentin as a vital tissue. However, the main interest of this paper focuses on penetration from the outside towards the pulp rather than from the pulp towards the outside. The present overview centers on the dentinal tubules; how they are formed and how they change as a result of normal and abnormal function, age, and pathological processes and the effect of these processes on the permeability of dentin. Particular attention is focused on the patency of the dentinal tubules.This overview is largely based on the author’s own research, clinical insights and active participation in continuing dental education over the last 50 years. It is not a review of the literature related to the permeability of dentin. Rather it presents interpretation of results related to the permeability of dentin based on experience and opinions acquired over a lifetime in dental research.

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Dental Education in the COVID-19 Era: Challenges, Solutions and Oppor- tunities

The Open Dentistry Journal ◽

10.2174/1874210602115010017 ◽

2021 ◽

Vol 15 (1) ◽

pp. 17-24

Author(s):

Lubna Alkadi

Keyword(s):

Medical Education ◽

Patient Care ◽

Dental Education ◽

Well Being ◽

Review Of The Literature ◽

Delivery Methods ◽

Use Of Technology ◽

Rapid Changes ◽

Research Faculty ◽

The Way

Objective: The COVID-19 crisis has caused considerable disruption to medical education and has stimulated creative and rapid changes in the way technology is adopted and utilized for education. This change is accompanied by many challenges related to education, patient care, research, faculty development and collaboration, finances, and the psychological well-being of stakeholders. Methods: A review of the literature on dental education during the COVID-19 pandemic was conducted. Published articles addressing the challenges, solutions and opportunities in dental education during the COVID-19 era were assessed. Results: COVID-19 was a catalyst for a significant amount of change in dental education. Despite the magnitude of the challenges, this pandemic has influenced many positive solutions and opportunities in dental education. Conclusion: The COVID-19 pandemic forced dental educators to rethink models of curricular delivery, as it disrupted traditional delivery methods. The use of technology was adapted to ensure the continuity of education. With that, a number of challenges surfaced that were tackled creatively. Reflecting over the whole experience with COVID-19, the multiple opportunities that have been identified can improve the way we educate our students in the future.

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